One major premise of this book is consistent with Hosea: God allows, even sends, suffering on His people in order to draw them back to Him. We read about war, famine, locusts plagues, and despair.
Even the land groans for relief. And in the midst of it, is a charge--a challenge--for corporate repentance and worship. God WANTS to bring abundance to His people.
There's also an apocalyptic bent to the book. I'm no expert on interpreting apocalyptic segments of scripture and transposing it into historical/future significance. But it does seem clear that Joel, like many of the Old Testament prophets (and religious leaders throughout history) expects final justice against Israel's antagonists.
The litany of offenses against Israel's God by her nation-enemies will be repaid. He has used them to bring judgment to His people, but they went overboard. And He plans to bring them down. He will lead them into a confrontation where it seems none of them will will be the victor, and Judah and Jerusalem will be exonerated and freed from their influence.
It is not my intent to say, "look around at the world right now, and see God destroying these countries." I don't know if this judgment on these nations has already come and gone, or if it is yet to be seen. I think, for me, today, the more important point is this:
God plans to redeem His people.
And I, because of the sacrifice of Jesus, have been included in that redemption. His end-game scenario displays plenty and ease of life. Struggles to make ends meet cease. There is peace, there is justice, and He enfolds His people into His love and security. Sounds heavenly. 
I guess what I get out of my reading today is not really that different from what I read yesterday. God longs to redeem and protect and provide for His people, and He will do what He must to bring them to the point where they realize their need for Him. I'm not saying all discomfort is from God, by any means. People have free will, and we do enough harm to ourselves and each other on our own. But I do believe God is willing to use everything He can to bring us to the point where we reach out to Him.
Lord, let me see Your hand in everything I experience, and let me seek every opportunity to reach out to You. Thank You for Your plan of redemption--not for the sorrow caused to others, but for the joy You bring to all who accept Your plan. Help me to be a conduit of Your blessing to other people in every circumstance.
Love it! Very well said.
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